Explore Burbank's Hidden Gems: Local Travel Tips
Secret Los Angeles
Eyes on the Road: Art of the Automotive Landscape In the early 20th century, automotive designs and highway systems reached a level of standardization that most drivers take for granted these days. In this exhibition, The Petersen Museum presents a collection of oft-overlooked automobiles designed by visual artists. These weird and wonderful designs include the spaceship-like 1955 Chrysler Ghia Gilda; the three-wheeled 1933 Dymaxion, which looks like a submarine; and the 1956 American Motors Astra-Gnome with a cartoonish clear bubble body. 🎟️ Tickets: Eyes on the Road is viewable with general admission tickets to the Petersen Museum. 🗓️ Dates: On view now through Nov 2024
Los Angeles magazine
Beyond Fest Horror, Sci-Fi and "genre" film have the ultimate showcase at this popular cinema fest, which this year, includes 82 features and 16 world premieres. This 12th edition presented by Neon, takes place at the Egyptian Theatre, Aero Theatre, Los Feliz 3, and Vista Theatre and features appearances by big names, including Al Pacino during a Scarface screening, Kiyoshi Kurosawa after a 7-film retrospective, plus Sam Raimi, Tarsem Singh, Kyle MacLachlan, Sarah Paulson, Ron Perlman, and Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock for the 30th Anniversary Speed. Other anticipated movies and stars: Gary Dauberman’s take on Stephen King’s Salem's Lot, Brady Corbet's The Brutalist (in 70mm); the 35mm debut of Sean Baker's Anora (with star Mikey Madison); Marielle Heller’s Nightbitch starring starring Amy Adams, Steven Soderbergh’s Presence; Barry Keoghan and Christopher Abbott’s Bring Them Down and Damien Leone’s Terrifier 3 (read our interview with the latter here next week). Sept. 26-Oct. 9
Time Out LA
Founders Ale House What: $6 well drinks, $7 cocktails, $5 wines, $6 beers; $7–10 bar bites; $3.50 sliders, taquitos and meatballs When: Mon–Thu 4–7pm, 10pm–close; Fri 3–7pm, 10pm–close; Sat, Sun 1–7pm, 10pm–close Why we love it: Filled to the brim every weekend, this longtime Pico-Robertson bar offers casual neighborhod pub atmosphere (and prices). Board games, dart boards and arcade fun upstairs keep locals occupied most evenings and weekends, but Founders Ale House turns into a party on game nights, when the bar breaks out a large-scale projector. Founders Ale House’s newer happy hour menu bucks the trend of rising prices with a selection of affordable bites priced by the item, including $3.50 sliders with vegan options, a $10 smashburger and $7 nachos.
Food Baby
Used jetlag to our advantage today to line up before the opening of FONDRY, easily one of the best bakeries in LA, including some of the very best croissants. 👶🏽🥐 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽 They proudly introduce two new offerings: - Brown Butter Financier 🧈 - The Hazelnut 🌰 Enjoy 😋
Los Angeles Fun Events
Healthcare Industry Social Night Join Us for a Night of Fun and Networking at the Healthcare Industry Social Night! Calling all healthcare professionals! Get ready to unwind and connect with your peers at the Healthcare Industry Social Night at Weary Livers in Santa Monica. Mark your calendars for an unforgettable evening of fun, laughter, and great conversations. Event Details: Date: Friday, October 11th Time: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Whether you're a doctor, nurse, admin or healthcare technician, this is the perfect opportunity to socialize and network with fellow professionals in a relaxed and social atmosphere. Enjoy delicious drinks and the chance to make lasting connections in your field. Bring your colleagues and friends for a fun night out at a new Santa Monica Speakeasy. We can't wait to see you there! Highlights: Exclusive gathering for healthcare professionals Lively bar setting with fun, social ambiance Drinks, games, and plenty of networking opportunities RSVP now and be a part of the Healthcare Industry Social Night. Let's make this evening a memorable one!
Los Angeles4 everybody
Exciting news! Just discovered a hidden gem – Trail Canyon in LA County! 🌟 It’s not your average hiking spot; here, you can immerse yourself in stunning natural beauty for free. 🌲 Imagine trekking through rugged canyons, listening to the gentle whispers of the wind, and feeling the thrill of conquering challenging terrain. 💧 It’s an adventurer’s paradise! Can’t wait to explore this scenic trail with you! 🤩
Secret NYC
Reframing Dioramas: The Art of Preserving Wilderness The Natural History Museum is famous for its life-size diorama halls, displaying over 75 different habitats representing global ecosystems including the Arctic tundra, the jungles of Tanzania, and the Great Plains of North America. To honor the 100th anniversary of the dioramas, the NHM will reopen a diorama hall that has been closed for decades. See newly restored dioramas that showcase this unique union of art and science. 🎟️ Tickets: Reframing Dioramas is viewable with general admission tickets to the Natural History Museum. 🗓️ Dates: Sept. 15, 2024 – Sept. 15, 2025
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Los Angeles Fun Events
The Horror Movie Watch Club It's Horror Movie Night! Every Thursday in October! Two movie times: 8PM & Midnight But here’s the twist: the movie remains a secret until the day of the event! Will it be a classic slasher, a paranormal thriller, or a psychological horror? You’ll have to join us to find out. We’re setting the stage with eerie decorations, creepy cocktails, and spine-tingling vibes to make your Thursday nights creepy AF. Whether you’re a horror aficionado or just love a good scare, this is the perfect way to celebrate spooky season. Mark your calendars, grab your friends, and come early to secure your spot. It’s going to be a scream! 👻 Spooky vibes await… if you dare! See you there, if you’re brave enough. 🍿🔪
Secret Los Angeles
Lumen: The Art and Science of Light This engaging new Getty Center exhibition examines how different authorities studied the science of light during the “Long Middle Ages” (800-1600 CE). Compare the perspectives of philosophers, theologians, and artists layered with their respective Christian, Muslim, and Jewish ideologies. In addition to ancient works from Western Europe, you’ll see several contemporary artwork installations that add to the themes of light and darkness. 🎟️ Tickets: Lumen is viewable with free general admission to the Getty Center. 🗓️ Dates: Sept. 10 – Dec. 8, 2024
Secret Los Angeles
Expansive Presentation of Andy Warhol The Broad presents a showcase of work by legendary American artist Andy Warhol, who is best known as a leading influence in the pop art genre. This installation takes the viewer through 26 of Warhol’s works, eleven of which are on view for the first time at The Broad. The major artwork to seek out is Liz [Early Colored Liz], which is a silkscreened image of Elizabeth Taylor from 1963. Other items on display include Warhol’s iconic Campbell’s Soup Can (Clam Chowder – Manhattan Style) [Ferus Type] and 40 Gold Marilyns. 🎟️ Tickets: Expansive Presentation of Andy Warhol is free to visit at The Broad. 🗓️ Dates: Ongoing Whether you’re an art lover, hosting visitors, or just want to change up your weekend plans, we love the Los Angeles exhibitions for a chance to experience the city’s thriving arts and culture scene.
Kathy
If you’re on a mission to find an aesthetic coffee shop that actually serves quality coffee, then you should put LOQUAT COFFEE on your list💛🖤 ✔️I absolutely LOVE their mascarpone🖤 Not only does the drink has the perfect amount of sweetness, the cream also doesn’t overpower the flavor of espresso✨ ✔️My friend got the iced ceremonial matcha and she also enjoyed her drink 🍵 ✔️Street parking only but I never had trouble finding one 🚙
Secret Los Angeles
Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms are turning heads from San Francisco to New York, and we’re lucky to have two of them available to visit for free right here in LA. Infinity Mirrored Room—The Souls of Millions of Light Years Away: An enclosed mirror-lined space filled with flashing LED lights that visitors physically step into. Since guests enter the space one group at a time, The Broad requires that you make a timed reservation to foster the best possible experience. Find it on the first floor of The Broad. Longing for Eternity: A mirrored chamber filled with pulsating neon lights that guests peer into one by one. There’s no need to make a reservation for this, so just join the line on the third floor. 🎟️ Tickets: Free to visit at The Broad, but a reservation is required for Infinity Mirrored Room—The Souls of Millions of Light Years Away. 🗓️ Dates: Ongoing
Secret Los Angeles
The Art of Movie Making: The Godfather The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures presents an array objects and artifacts from The Godfather (1972) and The Godfather Part II (1974), an opportunity for film buffs to learn about the making of one of Hollywood’s most storied film franchises. See costumes, props, scripts, and equipment, many of which have never been presented to the public, and all of which provide valuable insight to the process of filmmaking in the ’70s. 🗓️ Dates: On view now through Jan. 5, 2025
Los Angeles Fun Events
Hiking + Speed Dating - Baldwin Hills (Ages 30+) Join our group hike where we will rotate hikers through a series of 1:1 speed dates on the trail! Date: Saturday, July 6th Time: 10 AM: Meet at Boneyard Dog Park on Duquesne for a warm welcome and check-in to speed dating program (no downloads required!, but you will need a smartphone!) 10:30 AM: We will explain how we will be using the speed dating program and introduce you to your first date before we begin the hike. - 10:35AM - 1:30PM : Our hike will commence, as we climb to Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, you will be paired 1:1 for dates, along with breaks and mixing/mingling.
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Secret Los Angeles
Best in Low This new Petersen Museum exhibition takes us through the craft of lowrider culture, including paint, metal finishings, interiors, and hydraulics. Now that cruising bans have been lifted in California, lowriders are rolling into a new era on local streets. Learn all about the artistry and craftsmanship involved in creating these immaculate vehicles. 🎟️ Tickets: Best in Low is viewable with general admission tickets to the Petersen Museum 🗓️ Dates: Open now through April 2025
Time Out LA
Nossa Caipirinha Bar What: $10–11 cocktails and wines, $5–8 beers, discounted food items When: Daily 4–6pm Why we love it: After a short stint as a sit-down restaurant, this Brazilian eatery in Los Feliz flipped into a neighborhood watering hole inspired by the country’s botecos. Now, Nossa Caipirinha Bar offers five well-balanced renditions of its namesake drink—Brazil’s national cocktail—as well as a host of traditional bar snacks like cheese bread and coxinhas (chicken and paprika croquettes). At happy hour, snack on discounted bites like $9 chicken heart skewers, $14 fried calamari and $13 coxinhas.
Los Angeles Fun Events
Blues Music Social Mixer Socialize, Mix and Mingle with Blues Music Night!! Dive into a dynamic evening at Weary Livers, tailored for People interested in enjoying the Blues Music. This special gathering is designed for those eager to connect with fellow music creators, explore potential collaborations, or simply relax in an atmosphere that vibrates with musical energy. Seize this opportunity to share your sounds, discover new inspirations, and build lasting partnerships in the music industry! 🍹 Exclusive Drink Offerings: Enjoy our signature cocktails, crafted to stir your creativity. Savor a select range of fine wines and craft beers. Choose from various non-alcoholic beverages to suit all tastes! 🔞 Age Restriction: 21 and over only. Sep 25, 2024, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Los Angeles Fun Events
Film, Music & Entertainment Night Dive into an evening of creativity and connection at Weary Livers, the go-to spot for professionals and entrepreneurs in the Film, Music, and Entertainment industry. It's the perfect scene to mingle, find your next project partner, or simply kick back with fellow creatives. Don't miss this chance to network, share stories, and spark collaborations! 🍸 Exclusive Drink Mix: Toast with our handcrafted Soju cocktails. Explore our curated selection of craft beers and wines. Delight in non-alcoholic beverages ensuring there's something for everyone! 🎲 Entertainment & Games: Compete or collaborate in shuffleboard and darts. Relish in an ambiance designed for making meaningful connections. 🔞 Age Restriction: 21 and over only. 🌟 Why You'll Love This Night: Networking: Connect with creatives and professionals from the Film, Music, and Entertainment industry. Relaxation: Take a night off to relax in a setting designed for leisure and laughs. Inspiration: Exchange ideas and get inspired by the journeys of others in the creative community. 🎟️ Admission: Absolutely FREE! Spaces are limited, so act quickly to secure your spot. Sep 24, 2024, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Time Out LA
Maple Block Meat Co. Barbecue What: $9 five-piece wings, $10–12 nachos, $10 sliders, BOGO drinks When: Mon 5–9pm, Tue–Fri 5–6pm Why we love it: Meat butchered on premise, brisket smoked over peach wood logs, a pitmaster from Texas—this Culver City barbecue joint checks all the right boxes, including an excellent happy hour menu. Steeply discounted bar bites are available before 6pm, including nachos topped with your choice of smoked brisket or pork belly, a set of smashburger sliders and smoky, juicy wings with house white barbecue sauce or honey Sriracha. Best of all, it's available all night on Mondays. For drinks, there's a buy-one-get-one free deal on nearly all drinks, which you can also get the last hour of service any day of the week. (Some top shelf label exceptions do apply.)
Los Angeles Fun Events
Goth Night at Weary Livers Embrace the Shadows at Goth Night! Join us for a relaxed and enchanting evening at Weary Livers Bar with a playlist of all goth music, all night long. Date: Thursday, September 19th Time: 7 PM Enjoy the laid-back, gothic ambiance with subtle decorations and a comfortable atmosphere. Dress in your favorite casual gothic attire and unwind with fellow goth enthusiasts.
Los Angeles Fun Events
New to Los Angeles Social Night + Happy Hour New in town? Looking to make connections in a relaxed setting? Weary Livers is your destination for an evening of networking, fun, and discovery. This event is designed for newcomers and anyone eager to dive into the local scene. 🍸 Enjoy Our Welcoming Mix: Taste our specially crafted Soju cocktails. Discover a variety of craft beers and wines. Non-alcoholic options to ensure everyone's included! 🕹️ Games & Entertainment: Jump into games like shuffleboard and darts. A perfect backdrop to spark new friendships and professional connections. 🔞 Age Limit: 21 and over only, please. 📅 Date: Wednesday, September 18th 🕖 Time: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
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Secret Los Angeles
Fulfill your cravings at Grand Central Market! Nothing beats soaking up the city vibes like going out to eat, right? While Los Angeles offers dining options for every taste, from Michelin-starred restaurants to food trucks, you don’t need to explore the whole city to find them. At Grand Central Market, you’ll find countless affordable choices, from seafood to tacos. Almost every one of the more than 35 vendors has menu items priced below $15, making it one of the best cheap activities in Los Angeles. Keep in mind that the place can be packed, so it’s best to go early and be patient.
Secret Los Angeles
Explore your creativity at Remainders! This second-hand, sustainable craft store in Pasadena offers a wide range of items for your next craft adventure, whether solo or with friends. From yarn and fabric to picture frames, you’ll find everything at very affordable prices. The store is dedicated to giving donated items a second life, making art more accessible to everyone. In addition to shopping, you can also join classes and workshops on sewing, crochet, and embroidery. It’s a perfect budget-friendly plan for your next weekend!
Los Angeles Fun Events
Single Teachers Social: Back to School, Back to Fun! 📅 Date: Thursday, September 12th ⏰ Time: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM Age: 21+ School’s back in session, and so is your social life! 🍎✏️ Calling all single educators—whether you’re grading papers or prepping lesson plans, it’s time to take a well-deserved break. Join us for a night dedicated to teachers like you. Meet fellow singles who understand the joys (and challenges!) of being in the classroom. Expect an evening full of laughs, great conversations, and the chance to unwind with others in the education community. Whether you’re swapping teaching tips or just looking to make new connections, this is the place to be! You give your all to your students—now give yourself the gift of a fun night out. See you there! 📚🍷
Kathy
Ramen Akira is a newly opened modern ramen spot in Koreatown that brings amazing flavors in a bowl 🍜 ✔️The server recommended the yuzu ramen, and I decided to be adventurous and try it. I was a bit worried it would be too citrusy, but the broth was super creamy with a subtle hint of yuzu 🍊 I definitely recommend trying it if you want to experience something different! :) ✔️I wanted to eat outside cause of their super cute patio, but it was way too hot 😭 I’ll be definitely back to enjoy the patio 👀🌸
Time Out LA
Shirubē Japanese Santa Monica $5 beers, $6–9 sake, $8 “whiskey” cokes, $5–9 bar bites When: Mon–Thu 5–6:30pm; Sat, Sun 4–6pm Why we love it: This Tokyo-based restaurant chain serves seasonally inflected Japanese drinking fare on the northern edge of Santa Monica. The Westside location is the family-run company’s first location outside Japan, and while the regular dinner menu is excellent, the happy hour menu is a downright steal. Shirubē's ultra-popular corn ribs are on the menu as is the restaurant's surprisingly tasty negitoro over garlic bread. Snacky fare like pork belly tacos, edamame and garlic shrimp ($12) are also on offer during happy hour.
Los Angeles4 everybody
Enchant LA! Sometimes pretty places aren’t equally tasty but I would say this place has both down. I got to dress and have some sweet quality time over good korean flavors (kim chi pasta & bulgogi quesadillas were really good!) 🌸Garden Style Brunch&Bar🌸 ☕Modern Asian Fusion🥂Wine🍸Cocktail Kept things light w a citrus shrimp salad but then indulged in other great menu items. We went for lunch but it’s good for dinner dates tooooo 🤓
Secret Los Angeles
Hike your way up to the Hollywood Sign Whether you’re looking for a way to work out, explore nature, or simply enjoy stunning sunset views over the city, a quick hike to the Hollywood Sign is always a great idea. If you’re already familiar with the area or prefer to make plans on your own, just lace up your sneakers and head up there, which is free. If you enjoy socializing with others and you’re new in town, you might want to book a ticket to join a group hike.
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Los Angeles Fun Events
LA & Santa Monica Tech Night + Social 📅 Date: Tuesday, September 10th 🕖 Time: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Join us for a relaxed & social evening at Weary Livers, where professionals and entrepreneurs in tech come together to connect, share ideas, and unwind in style! Whether you're looking to network, find your next collaborator, or just have a great time, this event is for you. 🍹 Enjoy Our Exclusive Mix: Sip on our signature Soju cocktails, crafted to perfection. Relish a selection of fine craft beers and wines. Non-alcoholic options available to keep everyone in the mix! 🎯 Games & Entertainment: Challenge your peers in a game of shuffleboard or darts. Enjoy a casual and fun atmosphere perfect for making new connections. 🔞 Age Restriction: This event is 21+.
megan li
I was on a coffee streak during this trip. Apparently Maru has the best matcha in LA? I didn’t get to try it 🤣 their barista recommended the cream top, and it was delicious. I’d already had three cups of coffee by this point so the tiny cup was the perfect size. Such a cute space and I’ll definitely try their matcha next time 🤩
Explore Hidden Gems in Burbank With These Local Travel Tips
Discover the Charm of Magnolia Park
Mention Burbank to a local, and Magnolia Park immediately comes to mind. This quaint neighborhood is a treasure trove of small boutique shops, vintage stores, and cozy cafes. Start your day with a visit to Porto's Bakery, a local favorite for its pastries and Cuban-inspired dishes. Stroll down Magnolia Boulevard and pop into shops like It's A Wrap! for some unique finds, including clothes worn by your favorite TV stars.
If you're looking for an insider tip, swing by the Blast From The Past store, where you can find collectible toys and memorabilia that span decades. For some tranquillity, head to the Chandler Bikeway, a converted railway line offering a serene environment for walking and biking.
Unwind at the DeBell Golf Club
If relaxation is on your agenda, a visit to the DeBell Golf Club is a must. Nestled in the Verdugo Mountains, this 18-hole course provides awe-inspiring views and a challenging game for golf enthusiasts. Even if golf isn't your strong suit, the scenic surroundings offer an ideal spot for some downtime. The on-site restaurant, The Clubhouse Grill, features an inviting menu perfect for a leisurely brunch or dinner.
For an anonymous insight, the DeBell Club has some of the best spots to catch a sunset. Locals often recommend the vista points on the fairways for a panoramic view of the San Fernando Valley bathed in golden hues.
Adventure Awaits at Stough Canyon Nature Center
Outdoor aficionados will find Stough Canyon Nature Center a hidden gem for adventure. Located just off Wildwood Canyon Road, this nature center offers terrific hiking trails that cater to all levels of hikers. The most popular trail, Stough Canyon Mountainway, leads you through a trail that rewards hikers with breathtaking views of Burbank and beyond.
In the visitor center, you can explore exhibits on the local flora and fauna. For those seeking an extra thrill, guided night hikes and stargazing sessions offer a unique take on the area's natural beauty. These hidden gems are often missed by tourists but are revered by locals for the sense of serenity and adventure they provide.
Explore the Lorsby Train Station and Gordon R. Howard Museum
Step back in time with a visit to the Lorsby Train Station and the Gordon R. Howard Museum, one of Burbank's best-kept secrets. The historical train station is integrated into the museum and offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's railroad legacy, featuring vintage locomotives and carriages. The museum itself displays artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia that trace Burbank’s storied past.
Locals know this spot not just for its historical significance but also for its tranquil ambiance, making it an ideal place for some quiet exploration and learning about the anonymous heroes who shaped the city.
Savor Culinary Delights at Local Eateries
Burbank's culinary scene is as diverse as it is delicious, offering an adventure for your taste buds. One cannot overlook Castaway, a high-end restaurant perched on a hillside with a panoramic view of L.A. County. For a more low-key yet equally delightful dining experience, try Bob's Big Boy, an iconic diner known for its classic American fare served in a nostalgic setting.
Some local favorites, often frequented by those in the know, include Mo's Ristorante for hearty Italian dishes and Lare’s Mexican Restaurant for that authentic south-of-the-border flavor. For something truly unique, don’t miss the rotating food truck gatherings at various spots in the city, a staple event that brings together some of the best gourmet mobile kitchens in the area.
Get a Touch of Hollywood at Warner Bros. Studio Tour
No trip to Burbank is complete without experiencing the Hollywood magic at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. This behind-the-scenes adventure allows you to explore sound stages, sets, and props from iconic films and TV shows. The tour guides are a trove of anonymous insights and anecdotes that make the experience unforgettable.
For a true local travel tip, plan ahead and book the Deluxe Tour. This extended excursion offers additional perks like exclusive access to the prop department and a gourmet lunch in the studio's commissary, where you might just spot a celebrity or two. After your tour, spend some time in the Studio Plaza, where you can relax and soak in the ambiance of one of Hollywood's premier studios.